<b>Tree Care Guide:</b> Focus on tree care

Photos: Bartlett tree expertsYou know there are health symptoms people should not overlook. Well, it’s the same for trees. Trees often display key symptoms indicating that serious problems exist or could develop if ignored.

Here are five symptoms to look for on your clients’ properties:

1. Yellowing and Premature Loss of Leaves in Summer
Yellowing and loss of leaves on the interior portions of the crown may simply be indications of water stress (too little or too much) soil moisture. These symptoms commonly occur on birch, maple, tulip tree and other shallow rooted plants. In some cases, these symptoms may be an early indication of a root or soil disorder that is inhibiting water uptake.

2. Obscured Root Collars
Most trees, even young ones, exhibit a distinct, visible flare where the stem (trunk) joins the root system. If this flare is covered by soil or mulch, then disease, girdling roots and insect infestations are more likely to occur. If this condition is allowed to continue untreated and disorders develop, the interruption of water flow from the roots to the branches will lead to the crown’s decline. Once the crown is affected, remedial treatments may be unsuccessful in arresting the failure.  So, inspecting this critical region for disorders is important. Excavation of the buried root collar is a priority.

3. ‘Bleeding’ on Stems and Branches
Wet spots on branches and stems indicate sap flow from wounds that could have been created by insect borers, disease pathogens or environmental disorders. The sap may be colonized by bacteria and other microorganisms resulting in a discolored flux that may have a sour odor.

4. Delayed Budbreak
Trees initiate new growth in spring depending on species, weather conditions and the health status of the individual plant. If a plant seemed later than usual breaking bud and if the resulting new growth appears sparser than normal, this could indicate a root or vascular disorder. However, keep in mind that delayed bud-break and a sparse crown are expected on newly planted trees.

5. Premature Autumn Color and Leaf Drop
Trees under stress will frequently develop autumn coloration early and cast their leaves prematurely. This condition is most commonly associated with serious root and soil disorders but also can be caused by vascular diseases and certain boring insects.

Trees are an essential element to the beauty of your clients’ landscapes.  Help ensure their health by identifying these symptoms early and consulting a certified arborist should treatment be needed. 
 

The author is a marketing associate for Bartlett Tree Experts.